Keeping your home comfortable in the Las Vegas heat requires a reliable cooling system, but choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Homeowners often find themselves deciding between central air conditioning and ductless mini-split systems, or even needing AC repair for an existing unit. At Infinity Heating & Cooling, we specialize in helping families choose the best HVAC system to match their homes, budgets, and comfort needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between central air and ductless systems, including cost, efficiency, installation, comfort, and maintenance. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make an informed decision for your household.
What Is Central Air?
Central air conditioning is the most traditional cooling option found in homes across the United States. These systems use an outdoor compressor unit that connects to an indoor air handler, pushing conditioned air through ductwork that spreads it evenly across the house. This setup ensures a uniform temperature throughout all rooms and integrates well with existing heating systems.
Central air is often preferred for its ability to deliver consistent comfort across large spaces. At Infinity Heating & Cooling, our team offers professional AC installation to ensure proper sizing and ductwork integration, maximizing efficiency and performance.
What Are Ductless Systems?
Ductless mini-split systems provide a modern alternative to central air. Instead of using ducts, they rely on an outdoor compressor connected to indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings. Refrigerant lines and electrical wiring run through a small conduit, which makes installation quick and minimally invasive.
One of the biggest advantages of ductless systems is zoning. Each indoor unit can be controlled independently, meaning family members can set the temperature to their liking in different rooms. Ductless units are highly efficient and ideal for homes without existing ductwork, new additions, converted garages, or spaces where extending ducts would be costly.
You can explore more details about these systems on our Mini-Split AC page.
Cost Comparison: Upfront and Long-Term
The initial cost of central air depends largely on whether your home already has ductwork in place. Replacing an old central unit with a newer one is generally affordable, but adding ductwork to a home without it can be a significant expense.
Ductless systems usually cost more per indoor unit, but they save money in the long run by eliminating duct-related energy losses and offering precise control over which rooms to cool. Many homeowners find that their energy bills decrease after switching to ductless because they can avoid cooling empty rooms.
When comparing costs, it’s important to consider not just installation but also long-term energy savings and maintenance.
Energy Efficiency and Performance
Energy efficiency is one of the biggest factors homeowners consider when choosing an HVAC system. Ductless mini-splits are known for their excellent efficiency because they don’t suffer from duct leaks, poor insulation, or inefficient duct design. Many ductless systems achieve high SEER ratings, sometimes exceeding those of central air units.
Central air can still be efficient, particularly when installed by professionals who design and seal ductwork properly. At Infinity Heating & Cooling, we ensure that every installation—whether central or ductless—is done with efficiency in mind, helping homeowners save money while staying cool in the desert heat.
Comfort, Noise, and Air Quality
Central air systems deliver even, whole-home comfort with minimal visual impact—only vents are visible, keeping the design seamless. They are excellent for integrating air quality upgrades like high-grade filters, humidifiers, or purifiers. However, ducts can accumulate dust and allergens if not maintained properly.
Ductless systems provide room-by-room control, allowing personalized comfort. This is particularly useful in households where different family members prefer different temperatures. Ductless indoor units are very quiet, and with the noisy compressor located outside, indoor noise is minimal.
The choice comes down to whether you prefer uniform cooling or flexible, individualized comfort.
Installation and Flexibility
Central air is easiest to install in homes that already have ductwork, often requiring only a replacement of the outdoor unit and indoor handler. In homes without ducts, installation can be invasive and costly.
Ductless mini-splits, by contrast, are highly flexible. They can be installed in older homes, apartments, additions, and even garages. Because they don’t require ductwork, installation is fast and doesn’t disrupt your home. Homeowners also have the option to expand ductless systems over time, adding more indoor units as needed. This makes ductless systems a great choice for growing families or changing needs.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintenance is essential for both systems. Central air systems require regular duct inspections, filter changes, and coil cleaning to keep them efficient. Over time, ducts may develop leaks or clogs that reduce system performance.
Ductless systems require filter cleaning and occasional servicing of indoor units, but they eliminate the hassle of duct maintenance. With proper care, both systems can last 15 to 20 years or more.
Infinity Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive AC maintenance and repair services for both central and ductless systems, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a ductless system cheaper to run than central air?
Yes, ductless systems are often cheaper to run because they eliminate duct losses and allow you to cool only the rooms you use.
Can ductless mini-splits replace central air completely?
Yes, ductless systems can cool an entire home, but some homeowners choose a hybrid approach for maximum efficiency.
Which system provides better air quality?
Central air can support whole-home filtration, while ductless systems avoid dust build-up in ducts. Both can provide excellent air quality when maintained properly.
How noisy are ductless units compared to central systems?
Ductless indoor units are very quiet, and most of the noise comes from the outdoor compressor. Central air is also relatively quiet indoors, but ducts can sometimes carry sound.
What is the average lifespan of these systems?
Both central and ductless systems can last 15–20 years or more with proper installation and regular maintenance.
Conclusion
When comparing central air and ductless systems, the right choice ultimately depends on your home, budget, and comfort preferences. Central air is a great fit for homes with existing ductwork, delivering uniform comfort and discreet design. Ductless systems shine in homes without ducts, offering zoned comfort, high efficiency, and flexibility for evolving needs.
Whichever option you choose, Infinity Heating & Cooling provides expert installation, maintenance, and repair services to keep your home comfortable all year long. If you’re ready to upgrade your cooling system, our team is here to help you make the right decision. Visit our Contact Page to schedule your consultation and discover the best solution for your home.
